Smriti Mandanna, Jemima Rodriguez Engaged In Hot Staring (Screengrabs)
New Delhi: India’s must-win Women’s T20 World Cup match against Australia saw emotions run high as close friends Smriti Mandhana and Jemima Rodrigues were involved in a heated exchange after a costly mix-up in the middle.India got off to a strong start, with openers Smriti Mandhana (38) and Shafali Verma (34) putting together a 66-run partnership. However, after Shafali’s dismissal, a communication error between Mandana and Jemima led to the former being run out at a crucial stage of the innings.
The incident occurred on the 12th over when Jemima played a reverse sweep off Georgia Wareham towards short third man. Mandana called for a quick pass and immediately took off, but Jemima was marking the ball and did not respond in time. Australia quickly took advantage, and Mandhana was run out after a throw reached the bowler.When Mandana returned to the pavilion, both players looked visibly frustrated and exchanged angry looks. He watches:
Although Mandana later apologised, the incident briefly sparked a tense moment between the two teammates, who share a close bond off the field.
“That’s part of the game.” We moved too fast: Mandana
Despite the middle order’s struggles, captain Harmanpreet Kaur produced a sensational innings, smashing 56 runs off just 27 balls to take India to 170/4.
Her explosive knocks in the final over, which included three successive sixes from Australian captain Sophie Molyneux, helped India score 36 runs in the last two overs.Reflecting on the innings and exit, Mandhana downplayed the significance of the incident. “Yes, I mean it happens. It’s part of the game. We’ve moved on too fast,” she said.With their semi-final hopes hanging in the balance, India will now look to defend what looks to be a competitive total against the six-time champions.
